Music and politics

Not too long ago, a song held lots of power over the political arena. A song could inspire people to rise up and fight for what’s right. It could show the evils of government and inspire change, Bob Dylan, the Clash, Sex pistols, and so many others’s politically inspired songs enlightened the people.
At least that’s what people like to believe. In reality, these songs only reflected the already charged opinions of the people. None of these artists caused the change we saw. The riots, the injustices, and the social outrage of all the people caused the change, not the songs of a few bards.
Music does not inspire political change. I cannot think of a single time that a mass group of people’s beliefs were changed by a feel good political song. Not in any book, music based or historical. Music reflects the politics and atmosphere. I find it hard to believe that music has any mass effect on politics itself.
Don’t believe me? Well look at the music “politic” events. Live 8 could be considered a good example. Massive amounts of bands turned out to show their support for forgiving Africa’s debt. And who did they convince? I’m pretty sure that Africa is still sweating over how much it owes. The people may want it, but the music isn’t what convinced them.
I think it’s time for the music community to accept that we’re not going to create any large political change anytime soon. Or ever for that matter. If you truly want political change, try writing a book or speech. Organize a march. But singing a song isn’t going to get the big wigs prepared to change anything. Let us just accept that we reflect the political atmosphere, we do not cause any significant change.
But why? Well think about it. Most musicians are college educated Harvard grads in economics or political theory. They’re just out of high school or even drop outs. Nothing against them, but politicians aren’t going to take political advice from someone who spent their life dedicated to a guitar. The 6 string instrument, as beautiful as it is, doesn’t give much political insight.
That said, no one should stop making political songs, since they normally are filled with passion and emotions. They can be, and I believe normally are, damn good songs. So by all means write them. Just don’t get into a drum circle and talk about how awesome the songs are, and how we’re going to get change soon. Cause guess what, it isn’t going to happen, and if it does, it isn’t because of your “stellar” song.